The only other Heat rookies ever nominated were Rony Seikaly in 1989 and Glen Rice in 1990. Neither made it.

Once the fans select the starters, NBA coaches will choose the reserves for the Feb. 9 All-Star Game at Atlanta.

Tough road

The pace is picking up for the Heat. Tonight's game begins a 10-game, 16-day stretch that includes four sets of back-to-backs.

"Welcome to the NBA," Riley said. "We have been on this incredible easy schedule and vacation. I hope from all the extra practice time that we could benefit from it, but now it's the NBA creeping up on us and we've got to get ready."